Carl "Dean" Hennessee, Jr. known to family and friends simply as Dean, of Morganton, North Carolina, passed away June 20, 2025 leaving behind a legacy defined by service, honor, and unwavering devotion to those he loved.
Born December 6, 1960, Dean was a lifelong resident of Burke County. He served his country with distinction in the United States Army before beginning a respected and dedicated career in law enforcement. He began his service with Â鶹´«Ã½ Public Safety and later joined the Burke County Sheriff's Department where he served as a valued member of the Burke County Sheriff's Narcotics Task Force. His work in that unit reflected his commitment to justice and protecting those most vulnerable. He would go on to retire with the rank of Captain-a title earned through years of steady leadership and tireless dedication.
Dean is survived by his wife, Karen Lowman Hennessee, with whom he shared a life of love, partnership, and enduring devotion. He was a proud and loving father to their three children: Kasey Maria Hennessee, Jessica Elise Hennessee, and Carl Dean Hennessee, III. His family was his greatest pride and his role as husband and father was the one he cherished most.
He is also survived by his mother, Juliana Hennessee, two sisters: Linda Hennessee Melton and husband Larry Melton and Judy Hennessee Cooper and husband Eben Cooper. Dean was a cherished uncle to numerous nieces and nephews.
Those who knew Dean will remember him as a man of quiet dignity, deep integrity, and steadfast service. Whether in uniform or at home, he led by example and lived a life grounded in loyalty, strength, and compassion. His presence will be deeply missed, and his memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew and loved him.
A Celebration of Life Service will be held at the Oak Hill UMC MPAC Center on Tuesday, June 24, 2025 at 3:00 pm for family and friends to share in Dean's final roll call with visitation immediately following the service.
Military Honors will be provided by the NC National Guard and Caldwell County Veterans Honor Guard.
Sossoman Funeral Home
Hennessee, Carl
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